Pregnant women suffer in Delhi's heatwave

Pregnant women in Delhi are enduring intense heat and humidity, leading to significant health concerns and sleep deprivation. Women in areas like Dakshinpuri report sleeplessness, anxiety, and breathing difficulties, with cramped living conditions exacerbating the problem. The rising temperatures are particularly concerning for those in their second and third trimesters.

Medical experts warn that extreme heat, arriving earlier each year, poses serious risks to pregnant women and newborns. These risks include impaired fetal development, premature delivery, and stillbirth. Air pollution further compounds these dangers. Vulnerable populations, such as slum dwellers and outdoor workers, are most at risk.

Preventive measures are crucial, including community awareness campaigns and accessible cooling solutions like improved roofing and shaded workplaces. Environmentalists note that heat disproportionately affects women, increasing risks of pre-term births and stillbirths. Addressing heat stress is vital for maternal and child health.